He wanted to touch her. Hold her. Kiss her.

And she wanted him to, God help her.

With the rain pummeling the earth and the distant cry of a gull in search of a safe roost providing the soundtrack to their insular world, she licked the salty tang of the nearby sea from her lips.

His gaze dropped to her mouth, and the yearning in his eyes morphed to a visceral hunger.

A shiver rippled through her that had nothing to do with the chill of the cool mist wafting around the edges of the umbrella. It was all about longing.

Because his hunger became hers . . . and it tantalized. Tempted.

How many years had passed since she’d felt so wanted? So cherished? So loved?

Except Jack didn’t love her. Loathing couldn’t transition to love this fast. The magnetism between them had to be hormones, nothing more.

So before either of them made a mistake they regretted, someone had to end this dangerous interlude.

Since Jack didn’t seem inclined to break the spell, it was up to her.

Summoning up every ounce of her willpower, she pulled back, fumbled for the edge of the door, and slid behind the wheel. “You should g-go in or you’ll be soaked. The umbrella won’t protect you for long.”

He didn’t move.

“Jack.” She clasped the door handle. Gave a tiny tug.

At the nudge, he lurched back. “Drive safe.” His words rasped—and her willpower wavered.

Get out of here, Christi.

Smart advice.

Somehow she managed to twist the key in the ignition. Put the car in reverse. Back out of the spot and aim the Nissan toward Sea Glass Cottage.

Only after she was a safe distance away did she venture a glance in the rearview mirror.

Jack remained standing where she’d left him. Watching her.

Was he as flummoxed as she was?

Was he wondering what would have happened if they’d followed through on the electrical impulses zipping between them?

Was he thinking that would have been a mistake—or regretting her sudden departure?

Who knew?

As he faded into the night, only one thing was certain. Risking the loan by muddying up the agreement with an amorous encounter would have been foolish. It would also complicate the arrangements for Hannah. How would she face Jack every day if they’d succumbed to the kiss that had been a whisper away?

For now, it was smarter to maintain an arm’s-length distance from the man who’d once stolen her heart—even if she’d much rather be in his arms.

As for what tonight’s emotional parting portended for the long term?

Time would tell.

20

Charley had come to visit her?

As Beth peeked through the peephole in her front door, the taco-making artist smiled and lifted a brown bag.

She frowned.